Unleashed: Companion Animal Alliance saves nearly 5,200 lives

Record number of homeless animals rescued, adopted or reunited

In 2014, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) rescued, returned, rehabilitated and rehomed nearly 5,200 homeless animals—the highest number in shelter history. This year’s total eclipsed the previous year by more than 1,220 animals.

The 31 percent increase in the live-release rate is due to the staff’s determination to increase the return of lost pets to their owners, promote in-shelter adoptions and build relationships with local and out-of-state rescue operations.

The improvement also resulted from a new city ordinance that permits feral cats to be humanely trapped, neutered and released back to their homes rather than being euthanized.

Last year, CAA helped reunite nearly 670 lost pets with their families. More than 2,000 pets were adopted directly from CAA at its Progress Road shelter and offsite events. Due to efforts to develop strong partnerships with local and out-of-state animal welfare organizations, more than 1,250 animals were transferred to regional, breed and other rescues for adoption.

An additional 1,232 cats and kittens were released to a feral cat organization. Through a partnership with Spay Baton Rouge, the Feral Cat Coalition and Baton Rouge Spay Neuter, CAA implemented a new trap-neuter-release (TNR) program to reduce the area’s feral cat population. TNR replaces the previous policy that required feral cats to be trapped and euthanized in staggering numbers.

By working with these local partners, the shelter’s live-release rate for cats rose to 76 percent—an unprecedented number, especially compared to the 90 percent cat euthanasia rate recorded only a few years ago.

For more information on CAA visit caabr.org or call 774-7701.

Editor’s note: Adrian E. Hirsch is the development director for Companion Animal Alliance.

Creature feature

Jupiter is a young ball python. Don’t like feeding live? Jupiter eats pre-killed mice and is happy to just hang out. Jupiter would be an ideal pet for an experienced handler.

Kate (foster care) has a fluffy dark coat and glowing eyes that immediately draw your attention. This 8-month-old torti Maine coon mix was found at a car wash nestled by the vacuum cleaners. Although a little shy at first, this girl is eternally loyal to her family. With some time to adjust, Kate does well with other animals; but, she would also do well as an only pet.

Like her namesake, this Ginny Weasley (foster care) may be small, but she is very smart and feisty. This 12-week-old collie/lab mix and her sister were fending for themselves in the streets before being brought to the shelter. Once full grown, Ginny is likely to be a medium to large dog. Given the proper exercise and training, this girl will thrive in just about any household.

Alfie (foster care) is a young male tabby kitten. This playful guy would make a great addition to any home.

Aurelie (#51967) is a young female collie/yellow lab mix, who is full of personality and ready to play.

Jackie’s (foster care) shiny black coat and curious gaze will immediately catch your eye. This dachshund/terrier mix was terrified when came to the shelter after being caught in a trap. She has slowly come out of her shell to show her true, lovable personality. Her favorite pastimes include chewing on bones and getting belly rubs. Jackie feels safest in her kennel and believes all your towels, socks, blankets and clothing are safer there too. At around 6 months and 15 pounds, Jackie is the perfect size for just about any household. She does well with the dogs and children in her foster home, but she is pretty scared of the cat! Jackie is best suited for a calm household, but all she really needs is a family committed to turning her into a great canine companion.

All these pets have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Many other adoptable dogs are available through Companion Animal Alliance. Click here for more information.